Choosing the best 4 person tent can be difficult. Each camping season has its share of new technologies, reinvented classics, futuristic fabrics, and new brands. As a result, the outdoor market seems somewhat confused and difficult to approach for the uninitiated.
That is why we have put together this guide to help you find the perfect equipment for your next adventure.
Best 4 Person Tents: An in-depth Review
It is essential with this type of product, not to focus on the aesthetic aspect, but rather on the technical aspect. I understand that it is not easy to find your way among all the models on the market; this is why this buying guide and this comparison will allow you to define the family tent model that you need.
But, first, here is a comparative table.
| Model | Dimension | Material | Color | Price |
| Marmot Limestone Camping Tent | 8.3ft x 7.1ft x 5.25ft | Polyester | Orange | See Price |
| Coleman Sundome Tent | 9ft x 7ft x 4.11ft | Polyester | Navy/Grey | See Price |
| ALPS Mountaineering Lynx 4-Person Tent | 8.6ft x 7.6ft x 4.3ft | 75D 185T Polyester | Clay/Rust | See Price |
| MOON LENCE Camping Tent | 7ft x 7ft x 4.3ft | 190T PU material | Green | See Price |
| The North Face Wawona 4 Tent | 7.9ft x 7.3ft x 5.6ft | Durable Polyester with a PU-coated | Golden Oak/Saffron Yellow | See Price |
| Kelty Outback Tent Grey | – | 68D Polyester | Gray/Green | See Price |
| Coleman Cabin Tent with Instant Setup | 8ft x 7ft. x 4.11ft | 150D/150D Polyester/taped seams | Black | See Price |
| AmazonBasics Outdoor Camping Tent | 9ft x 7ft x 4.9ft | Polyester | Orange/Black | See Price |
| Coleman Juniper Lake Instant Dome Tent | 11.3ft x 7ft x 4.1ft | Polyguard fabric | Blue | See Price |
| NTK INDY GT Outdoor Dome Family Camping Tent | 12.8ft x 8ft x 4.7ft | 190T Polyester laminated with polyurethane | Blue/Grey | See Price |
1. Marmot Limestone Camping Tent
Marmot has been at the top of its game since 1974, and its Limestone 4-person tent is no exception. This is the perfect combination of price, space, insulation, and durability. Because of its excellent performance in all categories, we have made it one of our best tent choices.
The Limestone tent is quick and easy to set up, even in the rain and in the dark, thanks to its color system on the poles and ties. We also love it for its resistance to the elements. It is indeed equipped with heat-sealed seams and an included floor mat that prevent your personal belongings from getting wet.
But its most impressive feature remains the structure of the tent itself. Unlike many other models, the poles and binding rise in the air before starting to bend towards the tent’s center. This simple feature provides much more space inside the tent. There is even a mesh pocket on the ceiling. Slide your lamp in, and there you are, with perfect lighting for the whole tent!
General characteristics
- Capacity: 4
- Weight: 4.9 kg
- Dimensions (length x width x height): 8.3ft x 7.1ft x 5.25ft
- Water column: Waterproof
- Packaging size: 27.5” x 10”
- Color: Orange
Pros
- Easy to assemble.
- Good ventilation.
- Good insulation.
- Spacious hallway.
- Strategic design for more space.
- Competitive price.
Cons
- It could be lighter.
- Quite bulky.
Our verdict on the Marmot Limestone Camping Tent:
This tent is appreciated for the structural elements which compose it. It is also appreciated for its interior arrangement, which significantly facilitates the circulation of the family. Although this one is quite bulky and a bit pricy, we recommend this as the best 4 person tent.
2. Coleman Sundome Tent
If you’re not ready to invest in a high-end tent or are trying your hand at camping for the first time, look no further than Coleman’s Sundome 4-person tent. Although it does not have all the features of our other choices, it is a tent that is both reliable and durable.
Despite its medium-range price, it excels in the wind and rain. Its exclusive WeatherTec technology, its taped seams and its large vestibule keep your personal belongings (and you too!) Dry. It correctly supports winds of up to 35 km / h. It is also quick and easy to assemble.
If it is not a tent designed for backpacking trips, it nevertheless surprises with its lightness thanks to its fiberglass poles. It is an excellent choice for small families who want to start camping by car or for all those who want to try camping.
General characteristics
- Capacity: 4
- Weight: 4.3 kg
- Dimensions (length x width x height): 9ft x 7ft x 4.11ft
- Set-up: Conventional
- Color: Navy/Grey
Pros
- Performs well in rain and wind.
- Mounts easily.
- Spacious hallway.
- Excellent price compromise.
Cons
- Not ideal for cold weather.
- Few features.
Our verdict on the Coleman Sundome Tent:
The Coleman Sundome Tent is no exception to the rule and offers a 4-seater model, an ideal tent for camping stays with family or friends. Spacious and comfortable over time, its assembly is facilitated by color markings on the various elements. But we would recommend not opting for this for the winter season.
3. ALPS Mountaineering Lynx 4-Person Tent
Do you love being in nature, but don’t want to neglect the comfort of a good night’s sleep? The ALPS Mountaineering Lynx 4-Person Tent is a great choice. This traditional dome-shaped tent is unique and pretty to look at, while its walls and ceiling offer an almost panoramic view of the sky and the surrounding area.
We don’t mess with comfort here. The Super Dome 4 tent, with mesh window, provides excellent air circulation and easy access to the interior. Its double roof also offers a lot of space outside. However, inside, its design doesn’t allow you to stand up and move around without problems.
At just 3.5 kg, the ALPS Mountaineering Lynx is not a recommended model for long treks. It is preferably designed for camping by car, or as a base camp to explore the region and return to your starting point in the evening.
General characteristics
- Capacity: 4
- Weight: 3.5 kg
- Dimensions (length x width x height): 8.6ft x 7.6ft x 4.3ft
- Set-up: Conventional
- Water column: 2000 mm
- Material: 75D 185T polyester
- Color: Clay/Rust
Pros
- Spacious interior.
- Large hallway.
- Good ventilation.
- Yurt style.
- Offers spectacular views without mosquitoes.
Cons
- Not ideal for trekking.
- A little tight for 4 campers.
Our verdict on the ALPS Mountaineering Lynx 4-Person Tent:
The ALPS Mountaineering Lynx 4-Person Tent is the most popular model in ALPS! Not only for canoe trips but also family vacations. Designed simply and efficiently, it outperforms the life of other fabrics when exposed to UV rays. An excellent economic and sustainable choice!
4. MOON LENCE Camping Tent for 4
Its name already says a lot; this ultra-compact 4-person dome tent offered by MOON LENCE surprises with its originality and robustness. It’s available in two bright colors – green and orange – make your bivouacs and your weekends good moments of pleasure in the countryside. It is both incredibly light and rock solid. Its fiberglass frame, its fully taped seams, and it’s 1000 mm water column, weighs only 3.4 kg.
Mosquito net, hook for the lamp, repair kit, storage area, the MOON LENCE has everything you need. And what about the assembly time? We had it tested by novices who took only 15 minutes to unfold and install it. A record.
In summer, you have nothing to fear, since this tent provides UPF 50+ sun protection. Besides, it is well ventilated. You will be entitled to many ventilation systems, inside and outside of the tent.
General characteristics
- Capacity: 4
- Weight: 3.4 kg
- Dimensions (length x width x height): 7ft x 7ft x 4.3ft
- Set-up: Conventional
- Water column: 1000 mm
- Material: 190T PU
- Color: Green
Pros
- Compact tent.
- Super-fast assembly.
- Good value for money.
- Breathable and well ventilated.
Cons
- Limited height.
Our verdict on the MOON LENCE Camping Tent for 4:
In other words, for a MOON LENCE fan, this tent is a perfect surprise – and a formidable value for money. It is a practical and comfortable product. But this is a little bit smaller for four people.
5. The North Face Wawona 4 Tent
Forget the forest for a moment, and imagine yourself camping on the beach, very close to the sea. The North Face Wawona 4 Tent is an excellent choice for camping along the coast, and its simplicity guarantees it a place in our list of the best 4 person tent. Equipped with two large windows offering a magnificent view of the surroundings, it also offers excellent ventilation. Besides, this design allows you to socialize with your neighbors without letting in unwanted little visitors.
Spacious, the interior is 5.6 feet high and 58.13 square feet in space. There is no second vestibule serving as storage space, but you will find many mesh pockets for all your personal belongings.
With a total weight of 5.9 kg, a tent is more suitable for camping accessible by car.
General characteristics
- Capacity: 4
- Weight: 5.9 kg
- Dimensions (length x width x height): 7.9ft x 7.3ft x 5.6ft
- Packaged dimension: 24.5 x 9.5 x 9.5 inches
- Set-up: Conventional
- Water column: Waterproof
- Material: Durable Polyester with a PU-coating
- Color: Golden Oak/Saffron Yellow
Pros
- Excellent ventilation.
- Beautiful view of the surroundings.
- Easy to assemble.
Cons
- No separate hallway.
- Does not perform very well in the rain.
Our verdict on the MOON LENCE Camping Tent for 4:
Particularly sought after by paddlers, the North Face Wawona 4 Tent offers a large living area of 5.4 square meters and a very stable dome structure. Made with robust materials, this tent weighs 5.9 kg and is still light enough for short hikes. Having said that, we do not recommend it to use for heavy rains.
6. Kelty Outback Tent Grey
The Kelty Outback Tent is an excellent choice for severe mountaineers and hikers who don’t want to compromise on their sleep quality. Its most impressive feature remains its incredible lightness and ease of assembly, all despite its robustness and resistance to weathering.
It is designed with one vestibule. Its tear-resistant polyester construction and sealed seams make it particularly durable. It easily withstands ferocious winds as it approaches the summit, and provides excellent ventilation when the mercury rises. Its large interior pockets finally allow you to keep all your stock.
With a weight of almost 9 pounds, it is certainly not the lightest. With the Outback tent, you pay for comfort and resistance, at the expense of lightness (unlike our previous model).
Unfortunately, although the floor is made of 68D Polyester, the floor cover is sold separately. The Outback tent from Kelty remains one of the best 4 person tents of 2020.
General characteristics
- Capacity: 4
- Weight: 4.38 kg
- Dimensions (length x width x height):
- Packaged dimension: 25 x 8 x 8 inches
- Set-up: Easy
- Water column: 1800mm
- Material: 68D Polyester
- Color: Grey/Green
Pros
- Large D-shaped window.
- Excellent ventilation.
- Good view of the surroundings.
- Transport well.
- 3 seasons.
Cons
- Groundsheet not included.
- Not as spacious as it seems.
Our verdict on the Kelty Outback Tent for 4:
A bright idea animates the Kelty Outback Tent. With an area of 57 square ft., it almost feels like home. There is one big door on this very light tent assembled in the blink of an eye. Well ventilated and well-built. But we recommend buying a groundsheet separately for more protection.
7. Coleman Cabin Tent with Instant Setup
One of the biggest attractions of this tent of the world-renowned Coleman brand is its practical and lightweight cabin-shaped design. It does not require much practice or knowledge of how to assemble since it only takes 1 minute to assemble. The easy assembly gives it its distinctive and practical design (in addition to the winds and stakes).
It weighs only 8.1 kg once stored and in its lining, making it one of the most durable instant tents on the market. This tent is made of 150D Polyester, and the great advantage is that its seams are heat-sealed, which helps keep warm and prevents water seepage.
General characteristics
- Capacity: 4
- Weight: 8.1 kg
- Dimensions (length x width x height): 8ft x 7ft. x 4.11ft
- Set-up: Instant
- Set-up time: 1 min
- Material: 150D Polyester
- Color: Black
Pros
- Robust and reliable tent.
- Tall and functional tent.
- Quality ventilation system.
- Easy to assemble.
- Perfect for 3 seasons.
- 4 people.
Cons
- It does not entirely eliminate condensation.
Our verdict on the Coleman Cabin Tent with Instant Setup:
Many love this one since it is elementary to assemble, and for light rain, it is more than excellent. However, the negative points are that it is somewhat uncomfortable for a tall person to be seated since it is not very high. There is also the fact that it is necessary to stretch the winds well to avoid condensation as much as possible.
8. AmazonBasics Outdoor Camping Tent
For extreme adventurers who cannot do without camping, the AmazonBasics Outdoor Camping Tent offers a reliable, light, and warm enough shelter for a night below freezing. With a weight of 3.8 kg, it is an excellent light tent to transport in the mountains.
The reinforced poles make all the difference, which allows the AmazonBasics tent to keep its shape and stay in place under snow showers and strong wind. Its ultra-modern A-shaped design may seem small, but it allows you to concentrate the heat and retain it inside. Its structure and frame ultimately make it a reasonably easy tent for its category.
General characteristics
- Capacity: 4
- Weight: 3.8 kg
- Dimensions (length x width x height): 9ft x 7ft x 4.9ft
- Set-up: Conventional
- Material: Polyester
- Color: Orange
Pros
- Good storage space
- Reflective details
- Good value for money
- 3-season tent
- Easy to use
Cons
- Condensation
- Does not perform well in hot climates
Our verdict on the AmazonBasics Outdoor Camping Tent:
It is very well designed. The interior offers functional storage space and allows you to organize your stock thanks to its mesh pockets and its flashlight attachments. The reflective details allow you to find the tent in the dark or during a storm. Although the AmazonBasics tent is fairly versatile, it is less recommended for summer camping due to its above-standard warmth.
9. Coleman Juniper Lake Instant Dome Tent
This inflatable tent is ideal for a family of 4 planning to camp. If you want to sleep together in the same room, this product will suit you with its bedroom and its additional space for dogs. Practical pockets will allow you to store your belongings and clothes.
This inflatable camping tent also has a fly screen window, if you are camping in a mosquito area. Moreover, high mosquito nets are at the back and on the bedroom door.
In addition to being easy to assemble and disassemble, this inflatable tent is easy to store and transport, thanks to its unique cover. This tent is waterproof in case of rain since it has taped seams, a waterproof flysheet, and a polyethylene groundsheet. It will resist even in tropical rain.
In case of strong wind, know that this inflatable tent can also withstand heavy wind and rain. For this surface and this finish, you will not find better value for money.
General characteristics
- Capacity: 4
- Weight: 7.25 kg
- Dimensions (length x width x height): 11.3ft x 7ft x 4.1ft
- Packaged dimension: 8 x 8 x 36.2 inches
- Set-up: Easy
- Material: Polyester
- Color: Blue
Pros
- Performs well in rain and wind.
- Extra space for pets.
- Mounts easily.
- Spacious hallway.
- Excellent price compromise.
Cons
- The instructions could be a little better.
Our verdict on the Coleman Juniper Lake Instant Dome Tent:
If you are looking for more space to sleep with your furball, the Coleman Juniper Lake Instant Dome Tent will satisfy you. With extra space for pets, it is one of the most spacious models available on the market. There are also several pockets and vestibules to store the equipment. Only drawback: its high weight.
10. NTK INDY GT Outdoor Dome Family Camping Tent
Although comfort is always there, on this model, the designers have mainly bet on space. It is a mostly spacious tent for a 4-seater model. Its dimension consists of a length of 12.8ft, a width of 8ft, and a height of 4.7ft. It is more than enough to accommodate 4 or more guests.
This hiking tent also has a groundsheet. Its installation is not complicated. In addition, it has hooks almost everywhere on the roof. These hooks are mainly used to attach the house to the ground securely.
Easy to set up, the steel stakes, arches, and aluminum bar will help you have a reliable installation. Its disassembly is also easy. Ventilation hatches and a ventilated flysheet ensure proper ventilation inside this inflatable camping tent.
General characteristics
- Capacity: 4
- Weight: 5.5 kg
- Dimensions (length x width x height): 12.8ft x 8ft x 4.7ft
- Set-up: Easy
- Material: Polyester Taffeta 68D 190T
- Waterproof: 2500mm
- Color: Blue
Pros
- Stable structure
- Durable
- Water-resistant
- Good storage space
- Reflective details
Cons
- Space seems a little tight than it looks.
Our verdict on the NTK INDY GT Outdoor Dome Family Camping Tent:
More privacy, more visibility, more storage space, more ventilation, or more weather protection: the NTK INDY GT Outdoor Dome Family Camping Tent adapts to your needs thanks to an innovative design that allows you to install a low wall in the hall. The only downside is that you can have a hard time adjusting four people at once.
How to Choose the right 4 Person Tent for Camping?
A fundamental accessory for any self-respecting camper, your tent will accompany you for a long time. Hence the importance of choosing it with great care and thought. How to choose your best 4 person tent? Read on to know more.
- Waterproofing: The tent’s waterproofing is a must – I doubt that you would want to find your feet soaked at the first shower. So be sure to choose a tent whose canvas has a value of at least 2,000 mm. Also, take care that the seams of the fabric are heat-sealed. This is essential to guarantee its tightness.
- Weight: The “weight” criterion depends above all on the use you intend to make of your tent. If you intend to roam a lot, choose the lighter and more compact models. If, on the contrary, your tent is doomed to stay planted on a campsite, don’t skimp on the weight. It will only be all the more stable and robust.
- The erection time: Depending on the circumstances, the erection time of your 4-person tent can be a particularly decisive criterion. Some manufacturers present a clear manual, with a correct color code, while others are content with brief explanations.
- The shape: Choose the type of tent according to your use. For bivouacs in the mountains, prefer tunnel tents, which are certainly more challenging to set up but much more resistant to the wind. Geodesics are also ideal for altitude. If you plan on much more traditional use, opt for a dome tent, spacious and ultra-easy to install.
- The quality of the material: The poles and sardines guarantee the stability and robustness of your tent. Choose poles made from aluminum or fiberglass, which are both flexible and resistant. As for sardines, choose them with a square section; they are the most robust.
How to Use a 4-Person Camping Tent?
Camping with family or friends can be the most relaxing and entertaining activity. You just need to prepare a minimum. So, the stay does not quickly turn into a nightmare already when setting up the tent, or if a leak occurs on rainy days. Learn in this article the tips and the best way to become a seasoned camper.
- Prepare to pitch your tent.
Start by spreading the tarp on the ground, designed to insulate you from the cold and humidity and enhance your nights of sleep. If your tent does not come with these kinds of accessories, buy one made of plastic or vinyl, which are known to be the most resistant. Fold the ends if necessary so that the tarp fits perfectly into the tent. Slide them under the canvas, or fold them on themselves if it is too big.
- Gather all the paraphernalia
The 4-seater models are quite large and therefore require more accessories and parts for their attachment. You must then have everything in front of you so that you do not spend the day there and put yourself together. Gather stakes, poles, ropes, and others and organize them in the idea of use thread.
- Start assembling
In order to be able to thread the poles, it is preferable to put the tent flat on the ground. It will be much easier for you. Slide each into the pocket or corresponding flap from bottom to top before hooking the end to the dedicated hooks. It is essential to study your tent well before setting to work. Because if you get lost in the middle, you could have even more difficulties.
- Put the tent up
It is strongly recommended to be at least 2 to raise the tent for coordination, especially for a 4-seater version. You put it on a stand and pull on the ends to stretch it well. It forms a square or a dome well conforming to the description of the notice. Drive the stakes to which your tent is attached very deep into the ground using a mallet.
- Don’t forget rain protection.
Once your tent has been set up and firmly fixed to the ground, consider putting a rain cover on it. Most models are sold with this kind of accessories. If not, get the same size as your hardware.
- Store the tent
Even if you are in a hurry to get out in the morning, don’t put your tent in its storage bag right away. First, let it dry in the sun to prevent it from becoming moldy and unusable over the months. It is the same for the interior; ventilate well to remove the odors of sweat and others which would have remained. To store it, repeat the assembly, but upside down this time.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Should you invest in an expensive tent?
Unfortunately, there is no magic answer. A better question to ask you would be: How will I use my tent? Planning a few weekends with the family in the car? A festival? A six-month trek through the Highlands? The right tent for you depends on your needs.
While it is true that a more expensive tent is usually better and has more practical features, there is no point in paying for extras that you will not use. For example, the ALPS Mountaineering Lynx 4-Person Tent is our best 4 person tent for all-season camping. But for the summer or for a simple hike, you will be much better off with a less expensive but more practical tent for these conditions, like the tent Marmot Limestone Camping Tent.
2. How to maintain and repair a 4 person tent?
Once your tent has been dismantled, clean the outside with a sponge rubbed on soap and rinse thoroughly. Dry it out of direct sunlight to prevent UV from weakening the canvas. Do the same with the ground cover. In case of leakage, spray a waterproofing spray on the affected part, or stick scotch tape there as a matter of urgency.
3. Can we pitch a tent on the beach?
Yes, but it is much easier with a freestanding tent (unlike a fixed tent). Of course, a freestanding tent flies in the wind. To prevent it from blowing away, use heavy rocks to hold it in place. No rock insight? Fill zip lock bags with sand and use them to hold them in place. You can even mix sand with water for better stability.
4. What color of the tent is recommended for summer?
There is a tendency to think that color is the most important characteristic to consider when keeping a tent cool. In reality, it is ventilation. A dark tent with good ventilation will always be cooler than a light tent with less ventilation. It is also better to opt for an opaque tent; since a transparent tent lets the sun’s rays pass better.
Conclusion
We hope you have found this guide to the best 4 person tent useful. If you are new to camping, don’t feel like you have to spend. Stay within a reasonable price range, and see if you need more. With experience, you will quickly learn to recognize which features you really need.
For an excellent 4-person tent, we strongly suggest any of our choices. Whether you are a novice or a veteran of the outdoors, they offer great value, are easy to assemble, hold water well and offer a good compromise on weight.
Max, a passionate lumberjack and outdoors enthusiast, loves fishing, camping, and hunting. He has extensive experience in the great outdoors and is eager to join Outdoor Fun Mag to share his adventures and knowledge. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, Max promises to bring laughter, learning, and an unforgettable outdoor experience.
